When people think of commercial roofing, they usually think of metal roofs. While metal roofs make up a large percentage of commercial roofs and metal is available in multiple types and styles, there are other options for your business as well. If you need to replace or repair your roof soon, it’s important you understand all of the different commercial roofing options.
1) Metal Roof
Metal roofing is often considered to be one of the most ideal choices because metal materials may include metal shingles that resemble traditional asphalt shingles, standing seam panels that provide long-lasting protection from leaks and severe weather conditions, or metal rolls that mimic shakes or slates with a thinner profile.
2) Rubberized Asphalt
Rubberized asphalt roofs are made from layers of metal-treated felt paper, shingles, or rolls that are coated with rubber. This roofing material becomes waterproof when the metal sheets heat up due to sunlight and shrink slightly, creating a tight seal at each seam. These roofs may be more affordable upfront than metal roofs but metal lasts longer.
3) Built-Up Roofs
They are composed of multiple layers of asphalt atop a waterproof membrane typically made of EPDM rubber. To create this type of roof, waste materials like sawdust are added under the asphalt to provide additional insulation while increasing the lifespan. Because this is a cheaper option than metal, it can save you money in the long run for smaller buildings that only need one or two coats on their roof.
4) Single-Ply Membrane
Made of either metal or rubber, single-ply membranes are extremely thin and easy to install. Because they sit atop the roof decking without penetrating it, metal plies provide excellent drainage while creating a waterproof seal if installed properly. They are not recommended for buildings with large areas that get windy, however. Rubber plans are less expensive but can stretch when faced with extreme temperatures, which makes metal an ideal choice for commercial roofs in cold climates.
5) TPO
Thin sheets of plastic called thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) are fused with metal or rubber to create a durable, waterproof roof that is especially resilient in cold climates. These roofs are typically made using metal or another metal-based material as the base and then covered with sheets of TPO.
Conclusion
Starting a new business is always a big investment. So, choosing the right type of roofing material for your establishment is very important. The good thing is that we have a lot of viability on the market and you can pick one that is best for your needs.
